Why Study Modes Matter for CFA Prep
Every CFA candidate is different; some prefer watching videos on a tablet, others like swiping through flashcards on a mobile app, and many still reach for physical or digital books. With rising competition and limited prep time, choosing the right study mode isn't just about convenience, as it directly impacts your efficiency, retention, and ultimately your score.
Whether juggling a job, switching from a non-finance background, or returning to study after a break, understanding which CFA study method works best for you is key. In this blog, we'll explore the pros and cons of each study mode: apps, video lectures, and books, and guide you to the best CFA learning experience. We'll also show how UWorld's adaptive platform supports all three, ensuring effective CFA Exam prep for Level 1, 2, and 3.
CFA Study App: Best for Learning on the Go
If you're wondering, “What's the best CFA app for studying on the go?”, a CFA study app lets you prepare flexibly without sacrificing depth. Ideal for working professionals and mobile-first learners, CFA apps combine convenience with powerful learning tools like flashcards, quizzes, and analytics. The best CFA study apps adapt to your schedule, helping you study smarter, not longer.
Why Choose a CFA Study App?
If you're a working professional or someone who studies during commutes or breaks, mobile learning is your best friend. CFA study apps allow you to practice questions, review concepts, and watch lectures anywhere, anytime.
Benefits:
- Flexibility to study on your schedule
- Bite-sized learning with smart flashcards and QBanks
- Easy tracking of performance analytics
- Reduces procrastination with notifications/reminders
How UWorld Excels
UWorld's CFA study app delivers the full QBank, video lectures, performance metrics, and flashcards in one seamless mobile experience. Unlike apps that just dump questions, UWorld teaches the "why" behind every answer, making it perfect for those from non-finance or tech backgrounds.
Use UWorld’s app flashcards during commute hours or short breaks to turn dead time into high-retention study sessions.
CFA Video Lectures: Best for Visual and Auditory Learners
For visual and auditory learners, CFA video lectures offer an engaging way to grasp complex concepts. If you're asking, “Are CFA video lectures effective?”, the answer is yes, especially when paired with practice questions. Video explanations help bring topics like derivatives, ethics, and portfolio management to life, making retention and understanding easier for non-traditional learners.
Why Choose CFA Video Learning?
Visual learners absorb concepts better through demonstrations and storytelling. Video lectures break down complex finance topics and often provide real-world context that static content may miss.
Ideal for:
- Candidates from non-finance backgrounds
- Repeating candidates who need concept clarity
- Those struggling with quantitative subjects like derivatives or fixed income
UWorld's Approach to Video Learning
UWorld offers concise, engaging CFA video lectures that explain the concept, why it matters, and how it applies to exam questions. This pedagogical focus on reasoning strengthens your exam instincts and long-term retention. Each video is mapped to core QBank concepts, allowing immediate practice after watching.
CFA Prep Books: Best for Deep Dives and Structured Study
CFA prep books are ideal for learners who prefer structured, in-depth study. If you're comparing CFA books vs videos vs apps, books offer a distraction-free foundational learning and review environment. They're handy for weekend study sessions or those who absorb material best through reading and note-taking.
When are Books the Right Fit?
Books work best for learners who prefer a linear, structured approach and want to study distraction-free. Some candidates retain information better through note-taking and reading, especially when revising or reinforcing concepts.
Good for:
- First-time candidates looking to build a strong base
- Students who prefer passive reading over active interaction
- Weekend or long-session study routines
How UWorld Enhances the Book Experience
While UWorld focuses on digital delivery, its QBank explanations mirror the depth and clarity of high-quality CFA prep books, without the fluff. You get the precision of a textbook with the bonus of visual aids, charts, and scenario-based logic, bringing the content alive, without the physical weight.
Many learners pair UWorld with the CFAI curriculum for comprehensive coverage.
What's the Best CFA Study Mode for Each Level?
Choosing between CFA books, videos, and apps isn't just about preference; it depends on your learning style, schedule, and the demands of each exam level. UWorld supports all three levels with adaptive content, so you never have to change platforms. From visual learning at Level 1 to analytical writing at Level 3, this quick comparison table helps you match the right study mode to your CFA level for maximum retention and results.
| CFA Exam Level | Focus Area | Recommended Study Modes | Why it Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Foundations, breadth of topics | Video Lectures + App | Visual aid for understanding, and the app enables daily bite-sized review. |
| Level 2 | Case-based application | App + Books | QBanks + deep reading supports scenario analysis and layering |
| Level 3 | Strategy, written response | Books + Practice App | Books prep for essays, and the app sharpens retention and revision. |
What Makes UWorld the Best All-Round CFA Learning Experience?
Unlike other CFA prep providers focusing on one or two formats, UWorld offers a fully integrated platform supporting every learning mode - mobile, video, and text. This flexibility ensures that you're always covered regardless of your preference, learning style, or lifestyle.
Why UWorld Excels Across All Study Modes
Whether you prefer to watch, read, or practice on the go, UWorld offers tailored prep for CFA Levels 1, 2, and 3. UWorld doesn't force you into one mode of study, as you get:
- Interactive QBank with rationales that teach “why” behind the “what”
- HD Video lectures with concept-first teaching for visual learners
- Mobile app access with flashcards and bookmarks
- Smart performance tracking to identify weak areas
- Level-specific insights across CFA Level 1, 2, and 3
Final Thoughts: Choose What Works for You
Ultimately, the best CFA study method is the one that aligns with your strengths, schedule, and stage of the exam. Whether you prefer CFA books, video lectures, or app-based learning, UWorld supports all three, so you never have to compromise on how you learn best.
With UWorld, you don't have to choose. You get the best of all worlds: app, video, and high-yield explanations designed for CFA success.
Customize your CFA study plan with UWorld’s all-in-one platform
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. The CFA Institute welcomes candidates from all academic backgrounds. Many successful charterholders come from engineering, science, or arts degrees. A finance degree is not required to enroll.
Financial Reporting and Analysis (FRA) and Quantitative Methods (QM) are often the most challenging at first. But with tools like UWorld’s diagrams and guided explanations, these topics become much easier to grasp.
UWorld CFA is a strong option for beginners. It uses simple language, visual aids, and detailed rationales that focus on understanding concepts – ideal if you’re new to finance.
Not necessarily. Many CFA prep providers like UWorld include foundational concepts directly within their course materials. You can start preparing without a separate course.
